Collie (Smooth)

Description

The Smooth Collie has always lived in the shadows of its more glamorously coated cousin but the two have always existed side by side and until 1994 they could be interbred so Smooth and Roughs could be born in the same litter.

It is thought that the Smooth sheepdogs of the 19th century were shorter on the leg and thicker set than the Rough Collie and with this in mind and infusion of greyhound blood to give more elegant and refinement. The resulting stock was mated back to the Rough Collie and the breeds today look almost identical apart from the coat. Amongst the dogs taken from Balmoral to Windsor Castle by Queen Victoria was her favourite dog Sharp who was a Smooth.

In 1979 the Kennel Club allocated the first Challenge Certificates for Smooth Collies as a separate breed and in recent years the breed has enjoyed increased popularity in the show ring, with its outgoing temperament, sound movements gaining it many admirers.

Breed Group

Pastoral

Vulnerable Native Breed

Yes

Size

Medium

How much exercise?

Up to 1 hour per day

Length of coat

Short

How much grooming?

Once a week

Supposedly sheds? *

Yes

Town or Country

Either

Type of home

Small House

Minimum Garden Size

Small/Medium

Lifespan

Over 10 Years

* If you are asthmatic or have an allergy, you should consult your medical advisor before considering obtaining a dog. More information can also be found on
the Kennel Club website.

The
Pastoral Breed Group

The Pastoral Group consists of herding dogs that are associated with working cattle, sheep, reindeer and other cloven footed animals.

Usually this type of dog has a weatherproof double coat to protect it from the elements when working in severe conditions. Breeds such as the Collie family, Old English Sheepdogs and Samoyeds who have been herding reindeer for centuries are but a few included in this group.